Friday, March 9, 2012

I've partnered with Apartment Guide to serve as an Official Apartment Guide Pet Blogger! As an official blogger, I will be sharing articles filled with tips for living on a budget.

When it comes to budget-friendly kitty themed decor, getting crafty is the way to go. Not only will you end up with a super unique piece that you can't find in stores, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself.

To help get you started, I've rounded up a few of my favorite feline craft projects and kits, that will no doubt transform you into the crafty cat lady that the world already thinks you are!

I've already written ad nauseum about my love for the book that shows you how to turn your cat's excess fluff into finger puppets and portraits, and am currently working on another cat-hair themed project I'll be be sharing with you soon. Best In Show: Knit Your Own Cat is also another book I've featured, if you desire working with yarn over fur when creating your kitty cat crafts.

Ready made cat beds and accessories can get super expensive, so why not save some cash and make them yourself? Does your cat need a hat? Yeah, there's a pattern for that. I found a tutorial on how to crochet an abstract cat afghan, too!

Amigurumi is defined as the "Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures," but all I know is that they're super cute. While you wouldn't want to give these intricate dolls to your cat to slobber on, they're purrfect for decorating your home or office, or giving to your lucky friends as gifts. There are plenty of patterns and instructions online for trying amigurumi - including this precious "Mao Mao" white kitten doll tutorial for the more advanced artisan.

I love kits because you don't have to worry about getting the right materials or spending extra cash on every little thing. This beautiful silkscreen design can be used as an attractive tea towel, or be cut out, sewn, and stuffed to make a stylish toy or cushion. For an equally adorable DIY project, I'm also a fan of the Make Your Own Kitten Sewing Kit by Nanette Regan.

This do it yourself kit comes with everything you need to personalize a catnip heart with the name of your very own little heartbreaker, including pre-cut felt, catnip, and even a few pins and needles!

If you’re ready for a whole new space or are looking to move, Apartment Guide has the photos, floor plans, features and tips to help you find the perfect pet-friendly apartment community.

Like Apartment Guide on Facebook at facebook.com/ApartmentGuide, follow them on Twitter @AptGuide, and "circle" them on Google+ for real-time tips and updates on making the most of your space and living on a budget.

Disclosure: Apartment Guide and owner Consumer Source, Inc. have partnered with bloggers like me as Official Apartment Guide Bloggers. As part of this program, I have received compensation. They have not told me what to purchase or what to say about the products used, and believe that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Consumer Source’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.